Tucked in a side street near Dondo, Mozambique there lays a sanctuary. It is a sanctuary for young neighborhood boys whether they are orphans or boys from underprivileged families. Named after Kedesh, a Biblical sanctuary, Kedesh Sanctuario stands as a place of refuge and refreshment. For those of us lucky enough to spend time within its walls it will remain forever dear in our hearts and minds. I can tell you honestly that Kedesh has changed the way I view ministry and community. I went there expecting to minister to young boys. I left with the sense of being blessed without reservation by John, Heather and the boys of Kedesh.
Growing up on and off the mission field, I have seen and heard of a variety of ministry models. Each of these models, whether it is an orphanage, health clinic or care point, could learn from what is happening at Kedesh. I know this is a bold statement to make, but please allow me to explain.
When a boy comes to Kedesh, he becomes part of a ministry which could be better labeled a community. John and Heather love, teach, play with, and impart years worth of wisdom and experience into each boy. The boys live together, work side by side, attend school, learn vocational skills, play sports, and become part of an extended family. John and Heather pour out into them each and every day. In the three weeks I was there, I witnessed the incredible vision of Kedesh. Here strangers become brothers and hope is returned to the eyes of children.
Many of these boys come from impoverished backgrounds with little chance of escaping from the violence, addictions, and poverty surrounding them. For these boys, Kedesh truly lives up to the meaning of it's name, Sanctuary. They are given a chance to grow up in the security of a loving home. John and Heather work hard to provide the boys with the support of a healthy community, the knowledge of their potential, and the freedom to become the young men they are meant to be. Most of the boys live at Kedesh for a decade or more. During this time, they gain more than a basic education and a place to stay. They are taught a variety of skills such as construction, masonry work, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and raising crops and livestock. In addition, John and Heather teach them about the love God has and the relationship He desires to have with each and every one of them.
After years of education and extracurricular learning opportunities, the boys at Kedesh find themselves with the hope of a future filled with possibilities. When the day comes for them to make their own way in the world, they are ready. Some choose to pursue higher education or a career. Some travel far from Mozambique to new countries they have only known from a world map. Some stay close to Kedesh. Regardless of what they choose, they are given the choice. This choice is made possible by the incredible efforts of John and Heather.
